As IL-34, a macrophage growth factor, is elevated in RA patients, it is considered a therapeutic target. Unexpectedly, inflammatory arthritis in IL-34 null mice and the newly identified IL-34 receptor, PTPRZ, null mice worsened disease. Through macrophage mediated mechanisms, IL-34 and PTPRZ-dependent events limited apoptotic neutrophil rich synovial inflammation and joint destruction. These findings counter the assumption that IL-34 is harmful in RA, and fuel further studies before designing a therapeutic approach for this illness.
- Hilda Minerva González-Sánchez
- Jea-Hyun Baek
- Vicki Rubin Kelley
